Well-Safe and NMC Energy form strategic alliance for North Sea decommissioning

Well-Safe Solutions has entered into a strategic partnership with Aberdeen-based NMC Energy to address the decommissioning of Apache’s Beryl and Forties fields in the UK North Sea. The two companies have signed an agreement to formalise their collaboration on these recently awarded contracts, which are designed to deliver reductions in both cost and schedule for the Houston-headquartered operator. This development marks a significant milestone for Well-Safe, as it secures a major role in the late-life management of these prominent offshore assets.

The partnership will see the firms combine their capabilities to offer a comprehensive range of services, including pipeline and flowline flushing, the integration of decommissioning equipment such as modular platform rig solutions, and engineering down and clean services. They will also provide topside preparation for heavy lift operations. While the immediate focus is on the Apache scope, the alliance intends to apply this combined expertise to other contracts. NMC Energy is currently serving as the project manager for Spirit Energy’s decommissioning plans in the region, bringing additional relevant experience to the collaboration.

Apache has outlined plans to cease its UK operations by 2030, a decision largely driven by the introduction of the windfall tax. David Moseley of Welligence noted that maintaining the Forties field into the 2030s would have necessitated substantial investment. The Forties field, which began production in November 1975, is now part of a broader trend of large-scale decommissioning projects. Industry sources describe the UK North Sea as the world’s most active decommissioning market, citing recent awards such as a third scope granted by Canadian operator CNR International to a team comprising AF Offshore Decom and Heerema Marine Contractors.

The sector is witnessing increased activity, exemplified by the recent heavy lift of Taqa’s North Cormorant topsides. This structure was delivered to the Dales Voe yard in Shetland for decommissioning by the Pioneering Spirit, the largest heavy lift vessel in the world, operated by Allseas. Phil Milton, chief executive of Well-Safe, stated that the alliance continues the company’s mission to provide a single point solution for late-life requirements. He described the working relationship as a natural progression, highlighting the complementary nature of the two firms’ offerings. Konstantin Nazaruk, chief executive of NMC, added that the partnership brings together expertise across subsea and platform interfaces, enabling integrated support that improves planning and execution for operators managing complex late-life projects.